Overview

This bill amends the Marriage Act 1949 to allow authorised belief organisations, starting with the British Humanist Association, to conduct legally recognised marriages. These ceremonies would be non-religious, conducted according to the organisation's established practices, and overseen by designated registering officers.

Description

Authorised Belief Organisations

The bill allows certain "authorised belief organisations" to conduct marriages. Initially, the British Humanist Association is automatically included. The Secretary of State can add others via statutory instrument (requiring parliamentary approval).

Marriage Procedures

Authorised organisations must designate a principal officer to appoint registering officers. These officers must be certified to the Registrar General and local authorities. Marriages must be conducted with open doors, in the presence of a registrar or a designated registering officer, and two witnesses. At least one marrying party must be a member of the organisation, or authorised to marry under its rules.

Legal Requirements

Strict record-keeping requirements are imposed, similar to those for religious ceremonies. The Registrar General can suspend registering officers if they fail to maintain the security of marriage registers.

Amendments to the Marriage Act 1949

The bill makes numerous consequential amendments to the Marriage Act 1949 to integrate the new provisions, covering areas such as marriage registration, record-keeping, and offences.

Government Spending

The bill is unlikely to significantly increase or decrease government spending. The costs associated with administrative changes, additional training for officials, and record keeping will likely be offset by any potential increased revenue from marriage licenses.

Groups Affected

• Humanists: Directly benefits humanists by allowing humanist marriages with full legal recognition.
• Other Belief Organisations: Potentially benefits other belief organisations if authorised by the Secretary of State.
• Couples: Provides couples with an additional option for legally binding marriage ceremonies.
• Registrar General and Local Authorities: Requires additional administrative duties regarding registration and oversight of ceremonies.

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